Neuroma formation in a rat median nerve model: influence of distal stump and muscular coating.

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate neuroma formation in a rat median nerve model.

Methods: In three groups, the median nerve was exposed and a gap was created. In the first group, a short gap of 1 cm (n = 12) was created; in the second, a long gap of 2 cm (n = 12) was created in the nerve.

Cross-chest median nerve transfer: a new model for the evaluation of nerve regeneration across a 40 mm gap in the rat.

A new animal model for the study of nerve regeneration in rats across a 40 mm gap between both median nerves is described. For autologous grafting, the ulnar nerves were dissected and sutured together. From the left median nerve, they were transplanted across the chest to the right median nerve.

Nerve regeneration across a 2-cm gap in the rat median nerve using a resorbable nerve conduit filled with Schwann cells.

Object: In a rat model, nerve regeneration was evaluated across a 2-cm defect in the median nerve by using a resorbable artificial nerve conduit. The aim of this study was to develop an artificial, biocompatible nerve guide to induce regeneration in the peripheral nervous system.

Methods: The authors compared a nerve conduit of trimethylenecarbonate-co-epsilon-caprolactone (TMC/CL) filled with autologous Schwann cells with both an empty hollow conduit and an autologous nerve graft.